Specification GCE A Level L3 in French

A Level
French
Specification
Pearson Edexcel Level 3 Advanced GCE in French (9FR0)
First teaching from September 2016
First certification from 2018 Issue 2
Summary of A Level French specification
Issue 2 changes
Summary of changes made between previous issue and this current issue Page
number
Information on listening audio files has been added 4, 11
Paper 2: Content has been updated 12
Paper 3: Content and assessment information have been updated 19-21
Paper 3: General guidance on using levels-based mark schemes and guidance on 26

timing of the speaking assessment have been updated
Information on codes have been updated 42, 60
Information on the letter has been updated 56
This document is Issue 2. Key changes are sidelined. We will inform centres of any changes to this
issue. The latest issue can be found on the Pearson website: qualifications.pearson.com
If you need further information on these changes or what they mean, contact us via our website at:
qualifications.pearson.com/en/support/contact-us.html.
Contents
1 Introduction 2
Why choose the Edexcel Level 3 Advanced GCE in French? 2
Supporting you in planning and implementing this qualification 3
Qualification at a glance 4
2 Subject content and assessment information 7

Themes and sub-themes 8
Paper 1: Listening, reading and translation 10
Paper 2: Written response to works and translation 12
Paper 3: Speaking 19
Assessment Objectives 41
3 Administration and general information 42

Entries 42
Access arrangements, reasonable adjustments, special consideration and
malpractice 42
Student recruitment and progression 45
Appendix 1: Independent research project form (RP3) 49

Appendix 2: Prescribed literary texts and films 51
Appendix 3: Grammar list 52
Appendix 4: The context for the development of this qualification 55
Appendix 5: Transferable skills 57
Appendix 6: Level 3 Extended Project qualification 58
Appendix 7: Codes 60
1 Introduction
Why choose the Edexcel Level 3 Advanced GCE in

French?
We believe languages should appeal to all students. Our new Pearson Edexcel Level 3
Advanced GCE in French has been developed to inspire all students who have an appreciation
of the language, literature, film and culture of the French-speaking world.
Weve listened to feedback from the languages community subject associations, academics
and advisors, together with hundreds of teachers and students and have designed a
motivating course of study that will enable your students to develop an advanced level
knowledge and understanding of the French language, the culture of France and other
Francophone countries, as well as practical and valuable language and transferable study
skills. This specification will help to prepare students for higher education and enhance their
employability profile.
Inspiring and engaging themes our qualification features familiar and popular themes
as well as some new content that provides clear links to some of the most fundamental and
interesting aspects of the culture of the target language country and communities.
Popular literary texts and films we offer a rich choice of literary texts and films that
includes contemporary and more classical titles, together with authentic source materials
from France and the wider French-speaking world.
Rewards creativity our assessments place an emphasis on spontaneity and grammar, as

well as providing plenty of opportunities for students to apply their knowledge independently
and creatively. Clear mark schemes encourage students to develop ideas, use language to
persuade and analyse, and give critical responses in their writing and speaking.
Clear and coherent structure our qualification has a straightforward structure with four
engaging themes Les changements dans la socit franaise; La culture politique et
artistique dans les pays francophones; Limmigration et la socit multiculturelle franaise;
LOccupation et la Rsistance. The four themes are studied alongside two works (either two
literary texts or one literary text and one film) assessed through two externally-examined
papers (Papers 1 and 2) and one teacher-examiner conducted speaking assessment
(Paper 3).
Manageable content we have worked closely with teachers and students to ensure that
our content is manageable and appropriate, so that you and your students can be confident
that you have enough time to cover what you need to at the appropriate depth.
Continuous progression our content builds on the understanding developed at

Key Stage 4 and AS Level and gives students the opportunity to learn and apply important
transferable skills in critical thinking and analysis, enabling them to make a smooth
transition to the next level of study.
AS and A Level qualifications that are co-teachable co-teaching AS and A Level

provides flexibility for you and your students. Centres co-teaching AS and A Level can deliver
Theme 1 and Theme 2 and one literary text or film in the first year, allowing students to be
entered for the AS Level at the end of the year.
2 Pearson Edexcel Level 3 Advanced GCE in French Specification

Issue 2 September 2017 Pearson Education Limited 2017
Supporting you in planning and implementing
this qualification
Planning
Our Getting Started Guide, available on our website, gives you an overview of the new
A Level qualification to help you get to grips with the changes to content and assessment
and to help you understand what these changes mean for you and your students.
We will give you an editable course planner and scheme of work that you can adapt to
suit your department.
Our mapping documents highlight key differences between the new and 2008
qualification.
Teaching and learning

There will be lots of free teaching and learning support to help you deliver the new
qualifications, including:
support with the new literary text and film elements
suggested resource lists to help with the teaching of society and culture
support for the independent research project
support for spontaneous speaking.
Preparing for exams

We will also provide a range of resources to help you prepare your students for the
assessments, including:
specimen papers to support formative assessments and mock exams
marked exemplars of student work with examiner commentaries
ResultsPlus
ResultsPlus provides the most detailed analysis available of your students exam
performance. It can help you identify the topics and skills where further learning would
benefit your students.
Get help and support

Our subject advisor service, led by Alistair Drewery, and online community will ensure that
you receive help and guidance from us, and that you can share ideas and information with
other teachers. You can sign up to receive e-newsletters to keep up to date with qualification
updates and product and service news.
Learn more at qualifications.pearson.com
Pearson Edexcel Level 3 Advanced GCE in French Specification 3

Qualification at a glance
Content and assessment overview

The Pearson Edexcel Level 3 Advanced GCE in French consists of two externally-examined
papers assessing listening, reading and writing and a speaking assessment. The speaking
assessment is externally set and conducted by a teacher-examiner*. All assessments are
marked by Pearson.
Students must complete their speaking assessment in April/May and all other assessments in
May/June in any single year.
*It is usual for teachers to conduct the speaking assessment with their students during a
timetabled assessment window in April/May, although Pearson offers a visiting examiner
facility. Timetable and fee information will be available on the Pearson qualifications website
www.qualifications.pearson.com
Paper 1: Listening, reading and translation (**Paper code: 9FR0/01)
Written examination: 2 hours
40% of the qualification
80 marks
Content overview
This paper draws on vocabulary and structures across all four themes. Themes are based on
the society and culture of the language being studied and are listed on pages 89.
Assessment overview
Students are not permitted access to a dictionary during the examination.
The examination is made up of:
Section A: Listening (30 marks)
A listening assessment based on a recording, featuring male and female French speakers.
Students will respond to comprehension questions based on a variety of contexts and
sources.
The listening audio files for the sample assessment materials are available on our website.
Section B: Reading (30 marks)
A reading assessment based on a variety of text types and genres where students will have
to respond to comprehension questions.
Section C: Translation into English (20 marks)
An unseen passage to be translated from French to English.

Paper 2: Written response to works and translation (**Paper code: 9FR0/02)
Written examination: 2 hours and 40 minutes
120 marks
Content overview
This paper draws on the study of two discrete French works: either two literary texts, or one
literary text and one film. The works must be taken from the list provided in Appendix 2:
Prescribed literary texts and films. The literary texts listed include a range of novels, plays
and a series of short stories. All of the films are feature length.
Assessment overview
This paper includes a translation exercise and two essays on either two literary texts, or one
literary text and one film (students must not answer questions on two films).
Students are not permitted access to a dictionary or any documentation relating to the works
during the examination.
Section A: Translation (20 marks)
Students translate an unseen passage from English into French.
Section B: Written response to works (literary texts) (50 marks)
Students must write an extended response on either one or two of the literary texts listed in
Appendix 2: Prescribed literary texts and films.
Students select one question from a choice of two for each of their chosen literary text(s). If
a student answers questions on two literary texts then they do not complete Section C.
Section C: Written response to works (films) (50 marks)
Students who answer only one question from a literary text in Section B must now write an
extended response on one of the films listed in Appendix 2: Prescribed literary texts and
films.
Students select one question from a choice of two for their chosen film.

Paper 3: Speaking (**Paper code: 9FR0/03)
Internally conducted and externally assessed
Total assessment time: between 21 and 23 minutes, which includes a single period
of 5 minutes formal preparation time
72 marks
Content overview
Task 1 draws on vocabulary and structures across all four themes (listed on pages 89).
Task 2 is based on independent research selected and carried out by the student. The
research may be based on one of the themes or on the students own subject of interest
related to the society and culture of the language studied.
Students will be assessed on their ability to use a range of language accurately,

communicate and interact effectively, summarise and analyse findings from written sources
relating to their research subject, and show knowledge and understanding about the culture
and society where the language is spoken.
Assessment overview
Students complete two tasks. Task 1 is worth 30 marks and Task 2 is worth 42 marks.
Task 1 (discussion on a Theme)
Students discuss one theme from the specification based on a stimulus containing two
different statements.
Task 2, Part 1 (independent research presentation)
Students present a summary of at least two of the written sources they have used for their
research and give a personal response to what they have read.
Task 2, Part 2 (discussion on independent research)
Students answer questions on their presentation and then have a wider discussion on their
research.
**See Appendix 7: Codes for a description of this code and all other codes relevant to this
qualification.

2 Subject content and assessment
information
Qualification aims and objectives

The aims and objectives of this qualification are to enable students to:
enhance their linguistic skills and promote and develop their capacity for critical thinking
on the basis of their knowledge and understanding of the language, culture and society of
the country or countries where the language is spoken
develop control of the language system to convey meaning, using spoken and written
skills, including an extended range of vocabulary, for both practical and intellectual
purposes as increasingly confident, accurate and independent users of the language
develop their ability to interact effectively with users of the language in speech and in
writing, including through online media
develop language learning skills and strategies, including communication strategies to
sustain communication and build fluency and confidence
engage critically with intellectually stimulating texts, films and other materials in the
original language, developing an appreciation of sophisticated and creative uses of the
language and understanding them within their cultural and social context
develop knowledge about matters central to the society and culture, past and present, of
the country or countries where the language is spoken
mediate between cultures and between speakers of the language and speakers of English
foster their ability to learn other languages
equip themselves with transferable skills such as autonomy, resourcefulness, creativity,
critical thinking, and linguistic, cultural and cognitive flexibility that will enable them to
proceed to further study or employment
develop their capacity for critical and analytical thinking through the language of study
develop as independent researchers through the language of study.

Themes and sub-themes
Papers 1 and 3 will be based on content from the following four themes.
The four themes address a range of social issues and trends, as well as aspects of the
political and artistic culture of France and French-speaking countries.
Themes 1, 3, and 4 focus on aspects of society or history of France only. Theme 2 requires
students to broaden their knowledge across any Francophone country/countries and/or
community/communities. Each theme is broken into three sub-themes (highlighted in bold).
These sub-themes are each exemplified further.
Theme 1: Les changements dans la socit franaise

Theme 1 is set in the context of France only. This theme covers social issues and trends.
Les changements dans les structures familiales
Les changements dans les attitudes envers le mariage, les couples et la famille.
Lducation
Le systme ducatif et les questions estudiantines.

Le monde du travail
La vie active en France et les attitudes envers le travail; le droit la grve; lgalit des
sexes.
Theme 2: La culture politique et artistique dans les pays

francophones
Theme 2 is set in the context of Francophone countries and communities. This theme covers
artistic culture (through music and festivals and traditions) and political and artistic culture
(through media).
La musique
Les changements et les dveloppements; limpact de la musique sur la culture populaire.

Les mdias
La libert dexpression; la presse crite et en ligne; limpact sur la socit et la politique.

Les festivals et les traditions
Les festivals, ftes, coutumes et traditions.
Theme 3: Limmigration et la socit multiculturelle franaise

Theme 3 is set in the context of France only. This theme covers social issues and trends.
Limpact positif de limmigration sur la socit franaise
Les contributions des immigrs lconomie et la culture.

Rpondre aux dfis de limmigration et de lintgration en France
Les activits des communauts; la marginalisation et lalination du point de vue des

immigrs.
Lextrme droite
La monte du Front National; les leaders du Front National; lopinion publique.

Theme 4: LOccupation et la Rsistance
Theme 4 is set in the context of France only. This theme covers political culture.
La France occupe
La collaboration; lantismitisme.
Le rgime de Vichy
Marchal Ptain et la Rvolution nationale.

La Rsistance
Jean Moulin, Charles de Gaulle et les femmes de la Rsistance; limplication des Franais
dans la Rsistance.

Paper 1: Listening, reading and translation
Content
Students will be assessed on their understanding of spoken and written French from a
variety of types of authentic texts and listening material, as well as their ability to translate
accurately from French into English.
Texts and recordings vary in length to include some extended passages. All spoken and
written materials are culturally relevant to France and French-speaking countries and are
drawn from the four themes (listed on pages 89).
Students should be able to:

understand main points, gist and detail from spoken and written material
infer meaning from complex spoken and written material
assimilate and use information from spoken and written sources, including material from
online media
summarise information from spoken sources, reporting key points and subject matter
translate from French into English.
Listening
The listening section will be made up of spoken passages covering different registers and
types, including authentic communication involving one or more male and female speakers.
Sources will include material from online media.
Reading
The reading section will be made up of texts containing both factual and abstract content and
will be authentic or adapted from authentic sources. The texts will include contemporary,
historical, literary, fiction and non-fiction, written for different purposes and audiences.
Translation into English
The content of the translation will be taken from one of the four themes.
Assessment information
First assessment: May/June 2018.
The total assessment time is 2 hours. Recommended timings for each section are given
below.
The assessment is out of 80 marks.
There are three sections in the paper, they cover the assessment of listening, reading and
translation skills in French.
Students must answer all questions in each section (A, B and C).
The use of dictionaries is not permitted.

For Section A (listening), 50 minutes (recommended timing), 30 marks:
o there are four questions in this section made up of multiple choice and open response,
including questions testing summary skills; all questions are set in French and must be
answered in French
o students will listen to a recording featuring French-language speakers who will speak at
a speed appropriate for the expected understanding at this level
o recordings will be issued as a CD or in MP3 audio format. The MP3 sound files must be
accessed via a secure download from our website
o students will have individual control of the recording and may stop, revisit and replay
sections of the recording as they wish.
For Section B (reading), 50 minutes (recommended), 30 marks:
o students respond to five questions based on the texts provided
o questions comprise both multiple-choice questions and open-response questions; all

questions are set in French and must be answered in French.
For Section C (translation into English), 20 minutes (recommended), 20 marks:
o students are given one unseen text in French and must translate it into English.
The recommended timings have been set to enable the student to complete each section in
sufficient time.
Sample assessment materials

A sample paper and mark scheme for this paper can be found in the Pearson Edexcel Level 3
Advanced GCE in French Sample Assessment Materials (SAMs) document.
The listening audio files are available on our website.

Paper 2: Written response to works and translation
Content
Students should be able to:
develop a detailed understanding and appreciation of the works studied, by writing critical
and analytical responses in the language of study to the works, taken from the prescribed
list provided (see Appendix 2: Prescribed literary texts and films)
produce responses that show critical appreciation of features such as:
o key concepts and issues;
o characterisation;
o form and technique of presentation, e.g. effect of narrative voice in prose text, effect of
camera work in film;
o social and cultural setting;
as appropriate to the work studied

present viewpoints, develop arguments, draw conclusions, analyse and evaluate in writing
manipulate language accurately through translating an unseen passage from English into
French.
Students must study two discrete French works: either two literary texts, or one literary text
and one film. The works must be taken from the list in Appendix 2: Prescribed literary texts
and films. The literary texts listed include a range of novels, plays and a series of short
stories. All of the films are feature length. The content of the translation will be a passage
based on one of the four themes.
First assessment: May/June 2018.
The total assessment time is 2 hours and 40 minutes. Recommended timings for each
section are given below.
There are two parts to this paper, Section A (translation into French) and Sections B and C
(written response to works).
For Section A (translation into French), 30 minutes (recommended timing), 20 marks
o students are given one unseen text in English and must translate it into French.
For Sections B and C (written response to works), 2 hours and 10 minutes, 100 marks
o students must write two essays, either two selected from Section B (literary texts) or
one selected from Section B (literary texts) and one from Section C (films)
o there will be a choice of two questions for each literary text and film. It is recommended
that, in order to give a detailed analysis of the work, students write between
300350 words for each essay, giving justified points of view, arguments and
conclusions with evidence from the work. The whole essay will be marked regardless of
length.
o students are expected to provide a critical and analytical response by selecting relevant
material form the works, presenting and justifying points of view, developing
arguments, drawing conclusions based on understanding, and evaluating issues,
themes and cultural and social contexts related to the works studied.

o no credit will be given for essays on literary texts which are based on film versions
adapted from the literary texts. Evidence given in the essay to justify viewpoints and
arguments must be based on the original literary text.
All questions will be set in French and must be answered in French.
The use of dictionaries is not permitted.
Students must not take any documentation relating to the works into the examination.
The recommended timings have been given to enable the student to complete each section
in sufficient time.

A sample paper and marking criteria (including guidance on how these criteria are applied)
for this paper can be found in the Pearson Edexcel Level 3 Advanced GCE in French Sample
Assessment Materials (SAMs) document.
Marking guidance
Marking guidance has been written to accompany the SAMs and is included with the SAMs
booklet. Please note that this guidance is for the use of the Pearson-appointed external
examiner. They are printed for reference in the specification to aid understanding of how the
assessment criteria will be applied.

Marking guidance for Paper 2: Written response to works and
translation
This marking guidance is for the use of Pearson-appointed external examiners. The guidance
has been included for teacher reference to aid understanding of how the assessment criteria
will be applied.
Section A Question 1 (translation) into assessed language
This task is marked using a points-based mark scheme in which 1 mark is given for each
correct individual section of language. Please see the Pearson Edexcel Level 3 Advanced GCE
in French Sample Assessment Materials (SAMs) document for an example of how the
translation will be marked.
Sections B and C Questions 2 to 26 (written response to works)
There are three levels-based mark grids to be applied to each individual essay that makes up
the written response to works. The mark grids are:
Critical and analytical response (AO4)
Range of grammatical structures and vocabulary (AO3)
Accuracy of language (AO3).
General guidance on using levels-based mark schemes
Step 1: Decide on a band

The examiner will first of all consider the answer as a whole and then decide which
descriptors most closely match the answer and place it in that band. The descriptors for
each band indicate the different features that will be seen in the students answer for that
band.
When assigning a level, the examiner will look at the overall quality of the answer and not
focus disproportionately on small and specific parts of the answer where the student has
not performed quite as well as the rest. If the answer covers different aspects of different
bands of the mark scheme, the examiner will use a best fit approach for defining the
level and then use the variability of the response to help decide the mark within the level,
for example if the response is predominantly band 58 with a small amount of band 912
material, it would be placed in band 58 but be awarded a mark near the top of the band
because of the band 912 content.
Step 2: Decide on a mark

Once the examiner has decided on a band they will need to decide on a mark within the
band.
They will decide on the mark to award based on the quality of the answer; they will award
a mark towards the top or bottom of that band depending on how the student has
evidenced each of the descriptor bullet points.
The examiner will modify the mark based on how securely the trait descriptors are met at
that band.
They will need to go back through the answer as they apply the mark scheme to clarify
points and assure themselves that the band and the mark are appropriate.

Critical and analytical response (AO4)
This mark grid assesses students ability to respond critically and analytically to the aspect
of the literary work or film outlined in the question. To provide a critical and analytical
response, students should select relevant material, present and justify points of view,
develop arguments, draw conclusions based on understanding and evaluate issues,
themes and cultural and social contexts.
This grid will be applied twice, once for each essay individually.
When deciding how to reward an answer, examiners will consult this mark grid as well as
the indicative content associated with each question which can be found in the document
Pearson Edexcel Level 3 Advanced GCE in French Sample Assessment Materials (SAMs).
Indicative content contains points that students are likely to use to construct their answer.
It is possible for an answer to be constructed without mentioning some or all of these
points as long as students provide alternative responses that fulfil the requirements of the
question.
Marks Description
0 No rewardable material.
14 Points of view relating to issues/themes/cultural or social contexts are presented,

with simplistic justification; limited interpretation with frequent misunderstanding
or confusion; any evidence from the work is descriptive.
Limited ability to form arguments or draw conclusions.
Response relates to the work but limited focus on the question.
58 Points of view relating to issues/themes/cultural or social contexts are presented,

with attempts made at interpretation, but they occasionally show
misunderstanding or confusion; evidence selected from the work for justification
is occasionally appropriate but often descriptive.
Arguments are made but with inconsistencies; conclusions are drawn but do not
fully link to arguments.
Response relates to the work but often loses focus on the question.
912 Critical analysis of issues/themes/cultural or social contexts is evident in relation

to particular aspects of the question, with some appropriate interpretations and
points of view, sometimes justified by appropriately selected evidence from the
work.
Logical arguments are followed through on particular aspects of the question,
occasionally detailed and with linked conclusions; some points are made without
exploration.
Response is relevant to particular aspects of the question, occasional loss
of focus.
1316 Critical analysis of issues/themes/cultural or social contexts is frequently

demonstrated, with some convincing interpretations and points of view,
predominantly justified with appropriately selected evidence from the work.
Generally detailed, logical arguments are made, with some persuasive
conclusions that mostly link together.
Predominantly relevant response to the question.
1720 Critical analysis of issues/themes/cultural or social contexts is demonstrated

through convincing interpretations and points of view, consistently justified with
appropriately selected evidence from the work.
Detailed, logical arguments and conclusions are made that consistently link
together.
Relevant response to the question throughout.

Range of grammatical structures and vocabulary (AO3)
This mark grid assesses students ability to use a range of grammatical structures and
vocabulary in order to produce articulate written communication with a range of
expression.
Marks Description
0 No rewardable language.
14 Limited variation of straightforward grammatical structures with much

repetition, producing writing that is often restricted and stilted.
Limited range of vocabulary resulting in repetitive expression.
Limited use of terminology appropriate to literary and cinematic analysis.
58 Occasional variation in use of mostly straightforward grammatical structures,

infrequent use of complex language, producing writing that is sometimes
stilted.
Vocabulary is mostly high frequency with occasional variation, expression is
frequently repetitive.
Occasional use of terminology appropriate for literary and cinematic analysis.
912 Some variation in the use of grammatical structures, including some recurrent
examples of complex language; sections of articulate writing with occasionally
stilted phrasing.
Some variation in use of vocabulary, resulting in variation of expression but
this is not sustained.
Some use of terminology appropriate for literary and cinematic analysis.
1316 Frequent variation in use of grammatical structures, including different types

of complex language, producing writing that is articulate throughout the
majority of the essay.
Frequently varied use of vocabulary, resulting in regular variation of
expression.
Frequent use of terminology appropriate for literary and cinematic analysis.
1720 Consistent variation in use of grammatical structures, including in use of

complex language, producing consistently articulate writing.
Consistently varied use of vocabulary, allowing ideas to be conveyed in a
variety of different ways.
Consistent use of terminology appropriate for literary and cinematic analysis.
Additional guidance
Variation of vocabulary and grammatical structures: the traits in the mark grid
differentiate between the variation of grammatical structures and vocabulary used by
students. Examiners will judge in which mark band to place students and which mark to
award, based on the effect that the variety of grammatical structures and vocabulary has on
the quality of the communication; the wider the variety, the more articulate the
communication will become (see definition of articulate below).
Examples of a variety of grammatical structures and vocabulary are: a selection of different

verbs, tenses, adjectives, vocabulary, including to express literary and cinematic analysis
(see further detail below), complex language (see definition below) for a variety of purposes,
including to present and justify points of view, develop arguments, draw conclusions based
on understanding.

Articulate: articulate communication is fluent, effective and coherent as students
control/manipulate the language to say what they want to say rather than what they can
say, for a number of different purposes. If students are restricted to what they can say, they
may not be able to express themselves for all purposes, for example to develop arguments.
Terminology for literary and cinematic analysis: vocabulary for critical analysis
according to the work being studied, for example plot, character; figures of speech such as
metaphor, similes; to describe theme and style such as, camera technique, hand-held
camera, use of black and white, first person narrative.
Complex language is considered to include the following:

conceptually challenging tenses such as the pluperfect, future perfect
passive voice
subjunctive mood
use of relative pronouns

using extended sentences to express abstract ideas/convey justified arguments that
require a range of lexis and structures, for example conjunctions and pronouns
using synonyms and a variety of expressions to say things in different ways
all grammar and structures included in the grammar list that are specific to A Level.
Straightforward language is considered to be:

simple sentences with limited linking of sentences and clauses
high frequency grammatical structures and vocabulary.

Accuracy of language (AO3)
This mark grid assesses students ability to apply grammar and syntax accurately.
Marks Description
12 Limited sequences of accurate language resulting in lapses in coherence.

Errors occur that often prevent meaning being conveyed.
34 Some accurate sequences of language resulting in some coherent writing.

Errors occur that sometimes hinder clarity of communication and occasionally
prevent meaning being conveyed.
56 Frequent sequences of accurate language resulting in generally

coherent writing.
Errors occur that occasionally hinder clarity of communication
78 Accurate language throughout most of the essay, resulting in mostly coherent

writing.
Errors occur that rarely hinder clarity of communication.
910 Accurate language throughout, resulting in consistently coherent writing.

Any errors do not hinder clarity of communication.
Additional guidance
Errors: students are not expected to produce perfect, error-free writing in order to access the
top band as errors are also made by native speakers. The mark grid describes the frequency
of errors and the impact that errors have on coherence.
Errors that do not hinder clarity:

errors that do not affect meaning, for example gender, adjectival agreements
infrequent errors that do not distract the reader from the content and which result in
coherent writing.
Errors that hinder clarity:

errors that make writing difficult to understand immediately (even if the meaning is
eventually understood)/errors that force readers to re-read in order to understand what is
meant, for example inappropriate tense formation, mismatch of subject and the
possessive adjective
frequent errors hinder clarity as they will distract the reader from the content of the
writing.
Errors that prevent meaning being conveyed:

errors that mean the reader cannot understand the message
errors that convey the wrong message
errors that make it unclear who is carrying out the action, for example using the incorrect
person of the verb
mother-tongue interference.
NB: these are examples only and do not constitute a finite list.

Paper 3: Speaking
Content
Students should be able to demonstrate:
knowledge and understanding of the cultural context by giving ideas, examples and
information on one of the themes and on a chosen subject of interest they have
researched linked to the social and cultural context of the language studied
the ability to analyse aspects of the cultural context by presenting and justifying valid
arguments, viewpoints and conclusions
the ability to interact and hold a natural and fluent discourse
skill in manipulating language accurately
the ability to respond to written language in speech.
These aspects are assessed via two distinct tasks conducted entirely in the target language,
which are carried out in consecutive order in one session.
Task 1 (discussion on a theme)
Content for this task will be based on any one of the twelve sub-themes from one of the four
overall themes listed on pages 89 of the specification. Students will be able to choose one
out of two sub-themes to discuss and this choice will be given to them on the day. Stimulus
cards will be given as a springboard to the discussion, which the teacher-examiner will then
broaden onto other sub-themes of the wider Theme.
Task 2 (presentation and discussion on students independent research project)
This task is in two parts. Content for this task will be based on the subject of interest that
students have chosen for their independent research project. This may be based on any of
the four themes of study listed on pages 89 of the specification or on a subject of interest of
the students choosing. However, it must relate to the cultural and social context of the
language studied.
First assessment: April/May 2018.
Timing for the speaking assessment:
o Task 1: 6 to 7 minutes (recommended)
o Task 2: 10 to 11 minutes (recommended)
o Total assessment time: 21 to 23 minutes, (16 to 18 minutes of speaking plus 5

minutes preparation time for Task 1).
Recommended timings have been given for each task to enable the student to complete
each one in sufficient time to access the full range of assessment criteria for both tasks.
Students complete two tasks Task 1 is worth 30 marks and Task 2 is worth 42 marks.
Assessments will be conducted by teacher-examiners in centres in one session within a
prescribed five-week assessment period. This will take place in April and May in any single
year. Dates for the assessment period will be confirmed in the UK Information Manual at
the start of each academic year. The assessment period will not always be continuous or
be the same period each year, for example it will need to accommodate the Easter break,
which changes each year.

Allocation of stimulus cards
The invigilator uses the sequencing grid provided by Pearson to allocate the choice of
sub-themes to the student. The stimulus cards based on the sub-themes are issued in the
order prescribed by Pearson. Neither the invigilator nor the teacher-examiner chooses the
order of the cards.
The invigilator gives the student a choice in English of two sub-themes, using the wording
for the sub-themes given on the sequencing grid, for example: You may choose 'media' or
'education. The student does not see the content of the stimulus card at this stage.
The sub-themes will come from two of the four overall themes listed on pages 89. There
is a stimulus card for each sub-theme. There are 12 stimulus cards in total
(three per theme).
Once the student has chosen their sub-theme, the invigilator gives the student the
corresponding stimulus card. This happens immediately before the preparation
time begins.
Roles of the teacher-examiner and invigilator

As well as supervising students during their 5 minutes preparation time, the invigilator is
responsible for giving students the choice of two sub-themes for the assessment, based
on the sequencing grid provided by Pearson (see example sequencing grid in General
instructions to the teacher-examiner included in the Pearson Edexcel Level 3 Advanced
GCE in French Sample Assessment Materials (SAMs) document).
The teacher-examiner is responsible for conducting the assessment. They are not
responsible for providing the stimulus cards.
Preparation time and notes

The preparation time of 5 minutes begins immediately after the student receives the card.
Students have 5 minutes to prepare to speak about their card.
The preparation time must be supervised and must take place immediately before the
assessment takes place. It must take place outside of the examination room with an
invigilator.
Each stimulus card contains two statements (A and B) offering different views on the
sub-theme. Students select one statement from the two given on the stimulus card during
their 5-minute preparation time. Students give their views on the statement during the
discussion.
Students are permitted to make notes (up to a maximum of one side of A4) during the
5-minute preparation time. Students may refer to these notes during the assessment. The
notes should be used for reference only, and students should not read out whole,
prepared sentences. Students are not permitted to write on the stimulus cards.

Task 1 (discussion on a theme)
Task 1 follows immediately after the 5 minutes preparation time so that students can
recall their prepared thoughts easily.
The student must tell the teacher-examiner which statement they have chosen
immediately before the discussion begins.
Students have approximately 6 to 7 minutes discussion time for this task.
There are two parts to the discussion.
o Part 1: the teacher-examiner asks the two compulsory questions in the order that they
appear on the card. The compulsory questions may be repeated but rephrasing is not
allowed. The teacher-examiner then helps to develop the discussion by asking
appropriate follow-up questions relating to the statement on the stimulus card.
o Part 2: the teacher-examiner then broadens the discussion to cover other aspects of
the overall theme. Optional generic questions are provided by Pearson as a guide to the
questions the teacher-examiner should ask in order to enable the student to meet the
requirements of the assessment criteria, i.e. to elicit examples and information to
demonstrate their knowledge and understanding of the cultural and social context and
to analyse aspects of the research topic by developing and justifying arguments and
forming conclusions.
Task 2 (presentation and discussion on students independent research project)

Students have approximately 10 to 11 minutes for this task.
There are two parts to this task.
o Part 1: The discussion must open with a presentation from the student in which they
provide a summary of at least two of the written sources they have used as part of their
research, outlining the authors main points/ideas and giving a personal response to
what they have read. The presentation must not exceed two minutes. In this part of
the task, students are assessed on their ability to respond in speech to written sources.
o Part 2: The discussion must be broadened out to a wider exploration of the content of
the students presentation and of their research as a whole. The teacher-examiner
should use the key findings and list of sources on Form RP3 in Appendix 1: Independent
research form (RP3) to help them formulate their own questions. Optional generic
questions are provided by Pearson as a guide to the questions the teacher-examiner
should ask in order to enable the student to meet the requirements of the assessment
criteria, i.e. to elicit examples and information to demonstrate their knowledge and
understanding of the cultural and social context and to analyse aspects of the theme by
developing and justifying arguments and forming conclusions.
In both tasks, students are expected to ask questions that elicit opinions as part of the
natural discourse and to confirm that their own points of view have been understood (see
guidance provided on Elicit points of view/check for understanding beneath the mark grids
for Interaction (AO1) in the specification and the Pearson Edexcel Level 3 Advanced GCE in
French Sample Assessment Materials (SAMs) document. Students are also expected to take
the lead in the discussions.

The teacher-examiner will cover all parts of each task and ask appropriate questions to
ensure that the student is able to access the maximum amount of marks available. The
speaking assessment will last between 16 to 18 minutes (plus 5 minutes preparation time)
and the teacher-examiner will ensure that timings are followed. The timing of the
assessment begins with the students first utterance in relation to Task 1. Once the
maximum stipulated assessment time has passed, the teacher-examiner will bring the
assessment to a natural end, allowing the student to complete their last sentence. They will
turn off the recording device at that point. Centres should be aware that students will not
receive any marks for any conversation that takes place beyond the maximum time allowed.
Guidance on the independent research project

For the purposes of the assessment, independent research means research carried out
without the help or instruction of others, including teachers.
The independent research project may be based on any of the four themes of study or on a
subject of interest of the students choosing, but must relate to the cultural and social
context of the language studied.
The independent research project must not be based on one of the literary works or films
studied for Paper 2 but can focus on a wider exploration of the author or film-maker of those
works studied. For example, if studying a novel by a particular author for Paper 2, the
independent research must not focus on that novel as it would be a duplication of content.
However, it could focus on the life of the author or the aspects that motivated the author in
the broader sense.
The independent research project must:

be based on a question or statement defined and developed by the student individually to
investigate a particular area of interest specifically related to the culture and/or society of
one of the target language countries or communities
include evidence of the students research findings, investigated independently, from a
range of authentic sources, including the internet
enable the student independently to contextualise, analyse and summarise findings
enable the student to identify at least two written sources, which they can summarise and
give a personal response to in their presentation.

The table below gives guidance on the process that could be followed.
Stage Description
1 Pre-Independent Teacher instruction on how to conduct research, teacher gives

Research advice on suitable resources and how to analyse information.
Initial conversations with the teacher on possible questions or
statements that the student may use for their independent
research project.
Subsequent to the above, the student should independently
develop the focus of their question or statement.
The teacher checks that the students question or statement will
allow the student to access the full range of marks.
2 Independent The student conducts research to find and select appropriate

Research sources (including written sources).
The teacher monitors the project by giving general feedback.
3 Analysis of Students record the 610 key findings of their research on

information Form RP3 and prepare to give information about and analyse their
findings, ensuring that all material is clearly linked to the target
language culture.
In preparation for their two-minute presentation, students
prepare to summarise the main points/ideas from at least two of
the written sources they have used as part of their research and
to give a relevant personal response.
It is recommended that students start on the identification stage as early as possible in the
academic year. However, learning hours for the independent research project are not
specified because the process of information collation and investigation is undertaken
independently. Students should be prepared to talk in detail about their subject of interest
for 10-11 minutes.

Controls relating to student independence and teacher guidance to
students for the independent research project
Teachers can:
give guidance on developing research skills (including methodology and analytical tools)
give guidance on selecting a subject and question or statement for the students
independent research project
explain what independence means (see definition in Guidance on the independent
research project)
comment on the suitability of the area of research (availability of resources, time
constraints)
give guidance and advice on completing Form RP3
advise and direct students to the assessment objectives
provide a selection of resources for student access.
Teachers must:
confirm that the question or statement has the potential to meet the requirements of the
assessment criteria and offer general guidance on any necessary amendments
ensure that the question or statement does not correspond with one of the literary works
or films that the student has studied for Paper 2. Teachers will be able to identify this from
the information given on Form RP3. Students will receive a mark of zero for Task 2 if their
independent research project focuses on a work studied for Paper 2
review each students Form RP3. Teachers should ensure that the research can suitably
access the specification requirements and give general guidance on the methodology and
analytical tools that the student could use
promote good practice such as referencing and using a bibliography system
sign the students Form RP3 before the examination to declare that the independent
research project is wholly the students work
monitor the different research projects being undertaken in a centre to ensure that
independence is being maintained. If more than one student chooses to research the
same topic, the teacher must ensure that each student has a different question or
statement and therefore an independent focus.
Teachers must not:

give students a choice of questions or statements from which they then choose, including
a group question or statement for whole-class research
give detailed feedback or guidance to individual students about how to improve their work
to meet the requirements of the assessment criteria. The guidance provided should only
enable students to take the initiative in making amendments, rather than detailing what
amendments should be made
rehearse or provisionally assess the students presentation and give feedback so that the
student may then improve it
provide access to, or rehearse, questions that will be used in the assessment of the
students independent research.
If the above is not adhered to, the awarding organisation will investigate this as a potential
case of malpractice. If malpractice is found to have taken place, a penalty will be applied
dependent on the circumstances and severity of the malpractice.
For full information regarding malpractice, please see the section entitled Malpractice on
page 44 of the specification and the JCQ document Suspected Malpractice in Examinations
and Assessments 201516.

Students must:
initiate and conduct their own research and develop their research skills when
investigating their subject of personal interest
include written sources for their research that are in the assessed language (students
must refer to at least two written sources in their presentation); these could include
newspaper and magazine articles, online written sources, journals, literary texts and any
other suitable written source that can be referenced. However, students can use and refer
to other authentic sources they have used in their research during the discussion that
follows the presentation. These could include films, television, radio, online audio-visual
material and interviews
complete and sign the independent research project form and submit it no later than three
weeks in advance of the date of the assessment (see Appendix 1: Independent research
project form (RP3)).

Marking guidance for Paper 3: Speaking
This marking guidance is for the use of Pearson-appointed external examiners. The guidance
has been included for teacher reference to aid understanding of how the assessment criteria
will be applied.
There are a number of levels-based mark schemes to be applied to both tasks.
General guidance on using levels-based mark schemes
Step 1: Decide on a band

First of all, the examiner will consider the answer as a whole and then decide which
descriptors most closely match the answer and place it in that band. The descriptors for
each band indicate the different features that will be seen in the students answer for
that band.
When assigning a band, the examiner will look at the overall quality of the answer and not
focus disproportionately on small and specific parts of the answer where the student has
not performed quite as well as the rest or indeed has performed temporarily better. If the
answer covers different aspects of different bands of the mark scheme, they will use a
best fit approach for defining the band. They will then use the variability of the response
to help decide the mark within the band, for example if the response is predominantly
band 46 with a small amount of band 79 material, it would be placed in band 46 but
be awarded a mark near the top of the band because of the band 79 content.
Step 2: Decide on a mark

Once the examiner has decided on a band they will then need to decide on a mark within
the band.
The examiner will decide the mark to award based on the quality of the answer; they will
award a mark towards the top or bottom of that band depending on how the student has
evidenced each of the descriptor bullet points.
The examiner will modify the mark based on how securely the trait descriptors are met at
that band.
The examiner will need to go back through the answer as they apply the mark scheme to
clarify points and to ensure that the band and the mark are appropriate.
Guidance on timing of the speaking assessment

The speaking assessment should last between 16 to 18 minutes. The timing of the
assessment begins with the candidates first utterance in relation to Task 1. Once the
maximum stipulated assessment time has passed, the teacher-examiner must bring the
assessment to a natural end, allowing the candidate to complete their last sentence.
The examiner must stop marking at the end of the sentence once the maximum assessment
time has passed, even if the recorded conversation has gone beyond the maximum time.

Task 1 (discussion on a Theme)
Three mark grids are applied to Task 1:
knowledge and understanding of society and culture (AO4)
accuracy and range of language (AO3)
interaction (AO1).
Knowledge and understanding of society and culture (AO4)

This grid assesses the students ability to communicate information about and demonstrate
appreciation of different aspects of culture and society related to the countries/communities
where the language is spoken. They are also assessed on their ability to respond critically
and analytically to different aspects of the culture and society by selecting relevant material,
presenting and justifying points of view, developing arguments, drawing conclusions based
on understanding and evaluating issues, themes and cultural and social contexts.
When deciding how to reward an answer, examiners will consult both this mark grid as well
as the AL speaking Task 1: indicative content associated with each question. This is
included in the document Pearson Edexcel Level 3 Advanced GCE in French Sample
Assessment Materials (SAMs). Indicative content contains points that students are likely to
use to construct their answer. It is possible for an answer to be constructed without
mentioning some or all of these points, as long as students provide alternative responses
that fulfil the requirements of the question.
Marks Description
13 Occasionally relevant, straightforward ideas, mostly generalised, occasionally

supported by information/examples/references; frequent loss of focus on the
cultural and social context.
Occasional evidence of analysis; points of view are given with limited
justification, arguments may be made but not developed, occasionally leading
to straightforward conclusions that may be contradictory; mainly relies on
description rather than analysis.
46 Relevant, straightforward ideas sometimes supported by

information/examples/references; some loss of focus on the cultural and
social context.
Some analysis of the cultural and social context is evident, with
straightforward arguments and points of view which are sometimes developed
and justified, sometimes drawing straightforward conclusions; relies on
description rather than analysis in places.
79 Relevant, occasionally perceptive ideas frequently supported by pertinent

information/examples/references; focus predominantly maintained on the
Analysis of cultural and social context demonstrated by frequently developed
and justified arguments and viewpoints, often drawing convincing conclusions.
1012 Relevant, perceptive ideas consistently supported by pertinent

information/examples/references; consistently focused on the cultural and
social context.
Analysis of cultural and social context demonstrated by consistently developed
and justified arguments and viewpoints, drawing convincing conclusions.

Additional guidance
Perceptive demonstrates an in-depth understanding by making connections between ideas

and information; goes beyond the standard, predictable response; shows insight/originality.
Ideas include thoughts, feelings, impressions, opinions.
Straightforward ideas, arguments, conclusions are deemed to be those that give the
standard, predictable response.

Task 1 (discussion on a Theme) (continued)
Accuracy and range of language (AO3)
vocabulary in order to produce articulate communication with a range of expression. It also
assesses students ability to apply grammar and syntax accurately and accuracy of
pronunciation
Marks Description
13 Limited variation in the use of grammatical structures and vocabulary, limited

or repetitive use of complex and idiomatic language, occasional variation of
expression; communication is sometimes restricted/stilted.
Limited sequences of accurate language; often errors occur that hinder clarity
of communication and occasionally prevent meaning being conveyed.
Pronunciation and intonation are inconsistent, leading to occasional impairment
in communication.
46 Some variation in the use of grammatical structures and vocabulary, with use of
some repetitive complex and idiomatic language, resulting in some variation of
expression; some sequences of articulate communication.
Accurate sequences of language, resulting in some coherent speech; sometimes
errors occur that hinder clarity of communication.
Pronunciation and intonation are intelligible though sometimes inaccurate.
79 Frequent variation in use of grammatical structures and vocabulary, including

examples of complex and idiomatic language, resulting in frequent variation of
expression and frequent sequences of articulate communication.
Accurate language throughout most of the conversation, resulting in generally
coherent speech; errors occur but rarely hinder clarity of communication.
Pronunciation and intonation are intelligible and mostly accurate.
1012 Consistent variation in use of grammatical structures and vocabulary, including

different types of complex structures and idiomatic language, expressing ideas
in a variety of ways, resulting in articulate communication.
Accurate language throughout resulting in coherent speech that is immediately
understandable; any errors do not hinder clarity of the communication.
Pronunciation and intonation are accurate, intelligible and authentic sounding.
Additional guidance

passive voice
subjunctive mood


Variation in use of grammatical structures and vocabulary: the traits in the mark grid
differentiate between the variation of grammatical structures and vocabulary used by
students. Examiners should judge in which mark band to place students and which mark to
award, based on the effect that the variety of grammatical structures and vocabulary has on
the quality of the communication; the wider the variety, the more articulate the

verbs, tenses, adjectives, vocabulary and complex language (see above for definition of
complex language) for a variety of purposes such as to present and justify points of view,
develop arguments, draw conclusions based on understanding and evaluating issues.
Articulate: articulate communication is fluent, effective and coherent as students control/

manipulate the language to express with some ease what they want to say for a number of
different purposes. If students are restricted by their language skills they may not be able to
express themselves for all purposes, for example to develop arguments.
Errors: students are not expected to produce perfect, error-free speech in order to access the
top band. The mark grid describes the frequency of errors and the impact that errors have
on clarity.

infrequent errors that do not distract the listener from the content of what is being said.

errors that make speech difficult to understand immediately (even if the meaning is
eventually understood) or errors that force listeners to strain to understand what is
frequent errors hinder clarity as they will distract the listener from the content of what is
being said.
errors that mean the listener cannot understand the message
errors that make it unclear who is doing the action, i.e. using the incorrect person or the
verb
NB: these are provided as examples only and do not constitute a finite list.

Task 1 (discussion on a Theme) (continued)
Interaction (AO1)
This mark grid assesses students ability to interact with the examiner by giving relevant
responses based on what they have heard, by initiating communication and eliciting points of
view.
Marks Description
12 Interacts with occasional spontaneity to some questions and statements, but

requires frequent prompting; occasionally able to sustain the conversation,
using communication strategies if necessary; frequent hesitation.
Occasionally initiates communication but development often relies on the
examiners lead; may elicit points of view/check for understanding, though
this may appear contrived.
34 Interacts spontaneously for extended sections of the conversation,

responding mostly with assurance but needing occasional prompting; able to
sustain most of the conversation, using communication strategies if
necessary; occasional hesitation.
Initiates communication by frequently taking the lead to develop the
conversation; elicits points of view/checks for understanding although
occasionally at an inappropriate moment.
56 Interacts spontaneously throughout, responding with assurance to questions

and statements; able to sustain conversation throughout, using
communication strategies if necessary; minimal hesitation.
Initiates communication by consistently taking the lead to develop the
conversation; elicits points of view/checks for understanding naturally and
appropriately at different points in the conversation.
Additional guidance
Interacts spontaneously: responds to questions and statements that arise as a natural

part of the conversation; gives a relevant, impromptu response based on what they have
heard.
Communication strategies: strategies that aid communication and allow the conversation
to be sustained, for example rephrasing, circumlocution, adjusting the message, asking for
clarification/repetition, repair strategies such as self-correction; these strategies enable
students to deliver the message when exact vocabulary or expressions are not known.
Elicit points of view/check for understanding: as part of the language of genuine

discourse, students are required to engage the examiner in the conversation by asking for
their points of view and checking that their own point of view has been understood. They are
expected to do this throughout the speaking assessment at appropriate points during the
conversation. This constitutes questions such as:
Seriez-vous daccord avec moi?
Nest-il pas correct de penser que?
Peut-on dire que?
Que pensez-vous de...?
Est-ce que vous me comprenez?

The timing of the assessment means that the teacher-examiner should contribute only brief
opinions in response to these types of questions, in order to give students the maximum
length of assessment time.

Task 2, Part 1 (independent research presentation)
One mark grid is applied to this part of the task:
responding to written language in speech (AO2).
Responding to written language in speech (AO2)
This grid is used to assess the students two-minute presentation only, it is not applied to
the discussion that follows the presentation. This mark grid assesses students ability to
understand and respond in speech to written language that is drawn from a variety of
sources and to summarise information from written sources in speech. The written sources
will be those that students read as part of their independent research and they must refer to
at least two named written sources during their presentation.
For guidance on what might be included in the presentation and how it may be structured,
see Indicative content for Task 2 Part 1, independent research presentation in the
document Pearson Edexcel Level 3 Advanced GCE in French Sample Assessment Materials
(SAMs)
Marks Description
0 No rewardable material
13 Summary makes limited reference to named written sources, makes

generalised comments rather than being focused on authors main
points/ideas.
Gives a personal response with limited justification, loses focus on the
written sources, straying into general opinion.
Responses that refer to just one single written source can be awarded a
maximum of 3 marks only.
46 Summary refers to named written sources but lacks clarity or is uneven in

its coverage of authors main points/ideas.
Gives a mostly relevant personal response with occasional justification,
some loss of focus on the written sources.
79 Presents a mostly clear summary of named written sources, generally clear

outline of authors main points/ideas.
Gives a relevant personal response to the written sources supported with
some justification.
1012 Presents a clear summary of named written sources, giving a clear outline
of authors main points/ideas.
Gives a convincing personal response to the written sources supported with
clear justification.
Additional guidance
Personal response: this is considered to be giving justified opinions, demonstrating

engagement with the written sources by making focused comments, giving a reaction
to/expressing feelings and thoughts about the written sources.

Task 2, Part 2 (discussion on independent research)
Three mark grids are applied to this part of the task:
knowledge and understanding of society and culture (AO4)
accuracy and range of language (AO3)
interaction (AO1).
Knowledge and understanding of society and culture (AO4)
This grid assesses students ability to communicate information about and demonstrate
appreciation of different aspects of culture and society related to the countries/communities
where the language is spoken. They are also assessed on their ability to respond critically
and analytically to different aspects of the culture and society by selecting relevant material,
presenting and justifying points of view, developing arguments, drawing conclusions based
on understanding and evaluating issues.
Marks Description
0 No rewardable material
13 Occasionally relevant, straightforward ideas, mostly generalised,

occasionally supported by information/examples/references; frequent loss
of focus on the cultural and social context.
Occasional evidence of analysis; points of view are given with limited
justification, arguments may be made but not developed, occasionally,
leading to straightforward conclusions which may be contradictory; mainly
relies on description rather than analysis.
46 Relevant, straightforward ideas sometimes supported by

information/examples/references; some loss of focus on the cultural and
social context.
Some analysis of the cultural and social context is evident, with
straightforward arguments and points of view that are sometimes
developed and justified, sometimes drawing straightforward conclusions;
relies on description rather than analysis in places.
79 Relevant, occasionally perceptive ideas frequently supported by pertinent

information/examples/references; focus predominantly maintained on the
Analysis of cultural and social context demonstrated by frequently
developed and justified arguments and viewpoints, often drawing
convincing conclusions.
1012 Relevant, perceptive ideas consistently supported by pertinent

information/examples/references; consistently focussed on the cultural and
social context.
Analysis of cultural and social context demonstrated by consistently
developed and justified arguments and viewpoints, drawing convincing
conclusions.
Additional guidance
Perceptive demonstrates an in depth understanding by making connections between ideas

and information; goes beyond the standard, predictable response; shows insight/originality.
Ideas include thoughts, feelings, impressions, opinions.
Straightforward ideas, conclusions, arguments are deemed to be those that give the
standard, predictable response.

Task 2, Part 2 (discussion on independent research) (continued)
Accuracy and range of language (AO3)
vocabulary in order to produce articulate communication with a range of expression. It also
assesses students ability to apply grammar and syntax accurately and accuracy of
pronunciation.
Marks Description
0 No rewardable language
13 Limited variation in the use of grammatical structures and vocabulary,

limited or repetitive use of complex and idiomatic language, occasional
variation of expression; communication is sometimes restricted/stilted.
Limited sequences of accurate language; often errors occur that hinder
clarity of communication and occasionally prevent meaning being conveyed.
Pronunciation and intonation are inconsistent, leading to occasional
impairment in communication.
46 Some variation in the use of grammatical structures and vocabulary, with

use of some repetitive complex and idiomatic language, resulting in some
variation of expression; some sequences of articulate communication.
Accurate sequences of language, resulting in some coherent speech;
sometimes errors occur that hinder clarity of communication.
Pronunciation and intonation are intelligible though sometimes inaccurate.
79 Frequent variation in use of grammatical structures and vocabulary,

including examples of complex and idiomatic language, resulting in frequent
variation of expression and frequent sequences of articulate communication.
Accurate language throughout most of the conversation, resulting in
generally coherent speech; errors occur but rarely hinder clarity of
communication.
Pronunciation and intonation are intelligible and mostly accurate.
1012 Consistent variation in use of grammatical structures and vocabulary,

including different types of complex structures and idiomatic language,
expressing ideas in a variety of ways, resulting in articulate communication.
Accurate language throughout resulting in coherent speech that is
immediately understandable; any errors do not hinder clarity of the
communication.
Pronunciation and intonation are accurate, intelligible and authentic-
sounding.
Additional guidance

passive voice
subjunctive mood

Variation in use of grammatical structures/varied use of vocabulary: the traits in the

mark grid differentiate between the variation of grammatical structures and vocabulary used
by students. Examiners should judge in which mark band to place students and which mark
to award, based on the effect that the variety of grammatical structures and vocabulary has
on the quality of the communication; the wider the variety, the more articulate the

verbs, tenses, adjectives, vocabulary and complex language (see definition above) for a
variety of purposes such as to present and justify points of view, develop arguments, draw
conclusions based on understanding and evaluating issues.
Articulate: articulate communication is fluent, effective and coherent as students

control/manipulate the language to express with some ease what they want to say for a
number of different purposes. If students are restricted to what they can say, they may not
be able to express themselves for all purposes, for example to develop arguments.
Errors: students are not expected to produce perfect, error-free speech in order to access the
top band. The mark grid describes the frequency of errors and the impact that errors have
on clarity.

infrequent errors that do not distract the listener from the content of what is being said.

errors that make speech difficult to understand immediately (even if the meaning is
eventually understood) or errors that force listeners to strain to understand what is
frequent errors hinder clarity as they will distract the listener from the content of what is
being said.
errors that mean the listener cannot understand the message
errors that make it unclear who is doing the action, i.e. using the incorrect person or the
verb
NB: these are provided as examples only and do not constitute a finite list.

Task 2, Part 2 (discussion on independent research) (continued)
Interaction (AO1)
This mark grid assesses students ability to interact with the examiner by giving relevant
responses based on what they have heard, by initiating communication and eliciting points of
view.
Marks Description
12 Interacts with occasional spontaneity to some questions and statements, but

requires frequent prompting; occasionally able to sustain the conversation,
using communication strategies if necessary; frequent hesitation.
Occasionally initiates communication but development often relies on the
examiners lead; may elicit points of view/check for understanding, though
this may appear contrived.
34 Interacts spontaneously for extended sections of the conversation,

responding mostly with assurance but needing occasional prompting; able to
sustain most of the conversation, using communication strategies if
necessary; occasional hesitation.
Initiates communication by frequently taking the lead to develop the
conversation; elicits points of view/checks for understanding although
occasionally at an inappropriate moment.
56 Interacts spontaneously throughout, responding with assurance to questions

and statements; able to sustain conversation throughout, using
communication strategies if necessary; minimal hesitation.
Initiates communication by consistently taking the lead to develop the
conversation; elicits points of view/checks for understanding naturally and
appropriately at different points in the conversation.
Additional guidance
Interacts spontaneously: responds to questions and statements that arise as a natural

part of the conversation; gives a relevant, impromptu response based on what they have
heard.
Communication strategies: strategies that aid communication and allow the conversation
to be sustained, for example rephrasing, circumlocution, adjusting the message, asking for
clarification/repetition, repair strategies such as self-correction; these strategies enable
students to deliver the message when exact vocabulary or expressions are not known.
Elicit points of view/check for understanding: as part of the language of genuine

discourse, students are required to engage the examiner in the conversation by asking for
their points of view and checking that their own point of view has been understood. They are
expected to do this throughout the speaking assessment at appropriate points during the
conversation. This constitutes questions such as:
Seriez-vous daccord avec moi?
Nest-il pas correct de penser que?
Peut-on dire que?
Que pensez-vous de...?

Est-ce que vous me comprenez?

The timing of the assessment means that the teacher-examiner should contribute only brief
opinions in response to these types of questions, in order to give students the maximum
length of assessment time.

Administration and general information about the conduct of
the speaking assessment
General information
A pack of assessment materials will be sent to centres in advance of the prescribed
five-week assessment period, which is during April and May. This must be kept in secure
conditions by the Examinations Officer until it is given to the teacher-examiner responsible
for the conduct of the speaking assessment. Students must not gain access to these
materials before the assessment commences. The teacher-examiner may open the pack
three working days before the day scheduled for the start of the speaking assessment, in
order to be familiar with the material and to prepare questions in advance. The
assessment materials in this pack must not be removed from the centre premises.
The teacher-examiner responsible for the conduct of the speaking assessments is required
to preserve the confidentiality of the examining materials: these materials must be
handed back to the Examinations Officer on completion of the tests and must be kept
secure.
Complete, unedited recordings of all assessments must be submitted to Pearson-
appointed external examiners for marking on USB or CD-ROM.
All assessments will be marked against assessment criteria that can be found in the
specification and the Pearson Edexcel Level 3 Advanced GCE in French Sample
Assessment Materials (SAMs) document.
Centres must have procedures in place to verify the identity of all students at the time of
the assessment. They need to confirm this in the Form RP3 in Appendix 1: Independent
research form (RP3). Centres are required to submit to Pearson one completed Form RP3
for each student in the cohort.
Preparation time and notes

The notes made during the preparation time should be a reference only, and students
should not read out whole, prepared sentences.
The preparation time must be supervised. It must take place outside of the room with an
invigilator. As well as supervising students during their 5 minutes preparation time, the
invigilator is responsible for informing students of the two sub-themes from which they
can make their choice and for giving them the correct stimulus card based on that choice.
A teacher who teaches the subject being examined or a senior member of teaching staff
who has had overall responsibility for the candidates preparation for the examination
cannot act as an invigilator during the examination (JCQ document Instructions for
conducting examinations, 20152016, paragraph 6.3, page 18).
Students are not permitted to write on the stimulus card.
Students must return their notes and stimulus card to the teacher-examiner at the end of
the assessment.
Any notes made during the preparation time must be kept securely by the centre until the
end of October.
Students cannot have access to a dictionary, or any other resource, during the preparation
time.
The teacher-examiner must test that both the machine used for recording the speaking
assessment and the backup machine are working before the assessment begins. Both
machines should be used in order to mitigate against any problems with the recordings,
and recordings should be checked after the assessment to ensure they have worked.

Independent research project form
Students must submit Form RP3 to the teacher, or to Pearson if the centre is using a
visiting examiner, no later than three weeks before the date of the assessment, outlining
the findings from the sources they have used for their research.
The list of sources must include at least two written sources.
The purpose of the form is to provide sufficient information for the teacher-examiner to
conduct a discussion; students will not be assessed on the contents of Form RP3.
The summary of the 6 to 10 key research findings is to be completed by the student in
English in advance, on Form RP3.
Students will be required to declare the literary work(s) and/or film studied for Paper 2 on
Form RP3 so the teacher-examiner can ensure that there is no repetition of this material
in Task 2. Students and teachers must sign a declaration on Form RP3 to confirm all work
is the students own.
Students are allowed to refer to their Form RP3 in Task 2, but they are not allowed to write
additional notes on it. It will be checked by the teacher-examiner in the examination room.
Visiting examiners
It is usual for teachers to conduct the speaking assessment with their students during a
timetabled assessment window in April/May, although Pearson offers a visiting examiner
facility. Timetable and fee information will be available on our website.

Sample student and teacher-examiner cards for the tasks and marking criteria (including
guidance of how these criteria are applied) can be found in the Pearson Edexcel Level 3
Advanced GCE in French Sample Assessment Materials (SAMs) document.
Marking guidance has been written to accompany the SAMs and is included with the SAMs
booklet. Please note that this guidance is for the use of the Pearson-appointed external
examiners, who will mark the assessments. They are printed for reference only so as to aid
understanding of how the criteria is applied.

Assessment Objectives
% in GCE
Students must: A Level
AO1 Understand and respond: 20
in speech to spoken language including face-to-face interaction
in writing to spoken language drawn from a variety of sources
AO2 Understand and respond: 30

in speech to written language drawn from a variety of sources
in writing to written language drawn from a variety of sources
AO3 Manipulate the language accurately, in spoken and written forms, 30

using a range of lexis and structure
AO4 Show knowledge and understanding of, and respond critically and 20
analytically to, different aspects of the culture and society of
countries/communities where the language is spoken
Total 100%
Breakdown of Assessment Objectives
Assessment Objectives Total for all

Assessment
Paper AO1 % AO2 % AO3 % AO4 % Objectives
Paper 1: Listening, reading 15 25 __ __ 40%

and translation
Paper 2: Written response to __ __ 20 10 30%

works and translation
Paper 3: Speaking 5 5 10 10 30%
Total for GCE A Level 20 30 30 20 100%

3 Administration and general information
Entries
Details of how to enter students for the examinations for this qualification can be found in
our UK Information Manual. A copy is made available to all examinations officers and is
available on our website.
Discount code and performance tables

Centres should be aware that students who enter for more than one GCE qualification with
the same discount code will have only one of the grades they achieve counted for the
purpose of the school and college performance tables. This will be the grade for the larger
qualification (i.e. the A Level grade rather than the AS grade). If the qualifications are the
same size, then the better grade will be counted (please see Appendix 7: Codes).
Students should be advised that if they take two GCE qualifications with the same discount
code, colleges, universities and employers they wish to progress to are likely to take the
view that this achievement is equivalent to only one GCE. The same view may be taken if
students take two GCE qualifications that have different discount codes but have significant
overlap of content. Students or their advisers who have any doubts about their subject
combinations should check with the institution they wish to progress to before embarking on
their programmes.
Access arrangements, reasonable adjustments,

special consideration and malpractice
Equality and fairness are central to our work. Our Equality Policy requires all students to
have equal opportunity to access our qualifications and assessments, and our qualifications
to be awarded in a way that is fair to every student.
We are committed to making sure that:

students with a protected characteristic (as defined by the Equality Act 2010) are not,
when they are undertaking one of our qualifications, disadvantaged in comparison to
students who do not share that characteristic
all students achieve the recognition they deserve for undertaking a qualification and that
this achievement can be compared fairly to the achievement of their peers.
Language of assessment
Assessment of this qualification will be in French. All student work must be in French, except
the translation in Paper 1 (Section C), which requires a response in English.
Access arrangements
Access arrangements are agreed before an assessment. They allow students with special
educational needs, disabilities or temporary injuries to:
access the assessment
show what they know and can do without changing the demands of the assessment.

The intention behind an access arrangement is to meet the particular needs of an individual
student with a disability, without affecting the integrity of the assessment. Access
arrangements are the principal way in which awarding bodies comply with the duty under the
Equality Act 2010 to make reasonable adjustments.
Access arrangements should always be processed at the start of the course. Students will
then know what is available and have the access arrangement(s) in place for assessment.
Reasonable adjustments
The Equality Act 2010 requires an awarding organisation to make reasonable adjustments
where a person with a disability would be at a substantial disadvantage in undertaking an
assessment. The awarding organisation is required to take reasonable steps to overcome
that disadvantage.
A reasonable adjustment for a particular person may be unique to that individual and,
therefore, might not be in the list of available access arrangements.
Whether an adjustment will be considered reasonable will depend on a number of factors,

which will include:
the needs of the student with the disability
the effectiveness of the adjustment
the cost of the adjustment; and
the likely impact of the adjustment on the student with the disability and other students.
An adjustment will not be approved if it involves unreasonable costs to the awarding

organisation, timeframes or affects the security or integrity of the assessment. This is
because the adjustment is not reasonable.
Special consideration
Special consideration is a post-examination adjustment to a student's mark or grade to
reflect temporary injury, illness or other indisposition at the time of the
examination/assessment, which has had, or is reasonably likely to have had, a material
effect on a students ability to take an assessment or demonstrate their level of attainment in
an assessment.
Further information
Please see our website for further information about how to apply for access arrangements
and special consideration.
For further information about access arrangements, reasonable adjustments and special
consideration, please refer to the JCQ website: www.jcq.org.uk

Malpractice
Candidate malpractice
Candidate malpractice refers to any act by a candidate that compromises or seeks to
compromise the process of assessment or which undermines the integrity of the
qualifications or the validity of results/certificates.
Candidate malpractice in examinations must be reported to Pearson using a JCQ Form M1

(available at www.jcq.org.uk/exams-office/malpractice). The form can be emailed to
pqsmalpractice@pearson.com or posted to Investigations Team, Pearson, 190 High Holborn,
London, WC1V 7BH. Please provide as much information and supporting documentation as
possible. Note that the final decision regarding appropriate sanctions lies with Pearson.
Staff/centre malpractice
Staff and centre malpractice includes both deliberate malpractice and maladministration of
our qualifications. As with student malpractice, staff and centre malpractice is any act that
compromises or seeks to compromise the process of assessment or which undermines the
integrity of the qualifications or the validity of results/certificates.
All cases of suspected staff malpractice and maladministration must be reported

immediately, before any investigation is undertaken by the centre, to Pearson on a JCQ Form
M2a (available at www.jcq.org.uk/exams-office/malpractice). The form, supporting
documentation and as much information as possible can be emailed to
pqsmalpractice@pearson.com or posted to Investigations Team, Pearson, 190 High Holborn,
London, WC1V 7BH. Note that the final decision regarding appropriate sanctions lies with
Pearson.
Failure to report malpractice itself constitutes malpractice.
More detailed guidance on malpractice can be found in the latest version of the document
General and Vocational Qualifications Suspected Malpractice in Examinations and
Assessments Policies and Procedures, available at www.jcq.org.uk/exams-office/malpractice.
Awarding and reporting

This qualification will be graded, awarded and certificated to comply with the requirements of
Ofqual's General Conditions of Recognition.
The raw marks for Paper 1 and 3 in this qualification will be scaled by Pearson to represent
the relative weighting of 40% for Paper 1 and 30% for Paper 3.
Paper Weighting Raw marks Scaling factor Scaling mark

1 40% 80 2.00 160
2 30% 120 1.000 120
3 30% 72 1.667 120
This A Level qualification will be graded and certificated on a six-grade scale from A* to E
using the total subject mark. Individual papers are not graded.
Students whose level of achievement is below the minimum judged by Pearson to be of

sufficient standard to be recorded on a certificate will receive an unclassified U result.
The first certification opportunity for this qualification will be 2018.

Student recruitment and progression
Pearson follows the JCQ policy concerning recruitment to our qualifications in that:
they must be available to anyone who is capable of reaching the required standard
they must be free from barriers that restrict access and progression
equal opportunities exist for all students.
Prior learning and other requirements

There are no prior learning or other requirements for this qualification.
Students who would benefit most from studying this qualification are likely to have a Level 2
qualification such as a GCSE in French.
Progression
This qualification offers a suitable progression route from GCSE and AS Level, focusing on
the development of all four language skills, listening, speaking, reading and writing.
Grammar and the mastering of linguistic features are key elements of this qualification as is
the inclusion of authentic written and spoken sources, responding through writing to
literature and film, and independent research.
Students are expected to be able to develop knowledge and understanding of the social
issues and trends and political and artistic culture of the target language country and
communities. They should be able to express and justify their own opinions, develop
arguments, and persuade, in speech and writing, building on the fluency and spontaneity
developed at Key Stages 3 and 4.
The skill of translation will be developed from those skills practised at Key Stages 3 and 4.
The range of topics promotes a clear progression in grammar, vocabulary and cultural
knowledge and understanding from Key Stages 3 and 4, and will increase linguistic and
cognitive demand. The grammar list illustrates the level required for this qualification.
This qualification offers a suitable progression route to further study at university level. In
addition, the study of one language at GCE can facilitate and help promote the learning of
other languages. The qualification may also add to an individuals employability profile,
particularly for UK organisations trading overseas as well as with international companies
based in the UK and globally. Students can progress to a wide range of careers in areas such
as journalism and media, education, science, medicine, the civil service, sales, marketing,
retail and charities.
Students will be able to apply their knowledge, skills and understanding to authentic, real-life
contexts. They will develop transferable skills that support study of other GCE subjects,
higher education study, and the transition to employment, together with an understanding
and appreciation of French-speaking countries and their cultures.

Appendices
Appendix 1: Independent research project form (RP3) 49

Appendix 2: Prescribed literary texts and films 51
Appendix 3: Grammar list 52
Appendix 4: The context for the development of this qualification 55
Appendix 5: Transferable skills 57
Appendix 6: Level 3 Extended Project qualification 58
Appendix 7: Codes 60

Appendix 1: Independent research project
form (RP3)
Pearson Edexcel Level 3 Advanced GCE in French (9FR0/03)
Centre name: Centre number:
Candidate name: Candidate number:
Examination series:
Research question/statement:
This form must be submitted no later than three weeks in advance of the date of the assessment.
Candidates are permitted to take a copy of this form into the assessment but they are not allowed
to write additional notes on it.
Key findings of research: You must provide 6 to 10 findings in English
1 6
2 7
3 8
4 9
5 10
List of sources: The following sources were used during the course of conducting the
independent research (students must include at least two written sources, which students
must refer to during their presentation in Task 2)
Full title of article/journal/literary Author and date (if applicable)

text/film/other
Please continue on a separate sheet if necessary.
The independent research project must not be based on one of the literary works or films studied
for Paper 2. Students will receive a mark of zero for Task 2 if their independent research project
focuses on a work studied for Paper 2.

Students must write the works studied below.
Declaration of works studied for Paper 2
Paper 2 literary texts/film studied:
(1) ......................................................................................................................
(2) ......................................................................................................................
Candidate declaration: I declare that the material I have used for my independent research
project is not based on either of the works studied for Paper 2. I declare that the work submitted
for this assessment is my own. I have clearly referenced any sources used in the work. I
understand that false declaration is a form of malpractice. I agree to my work being used to
support professional development, online support and training of teachers and examiners.
Candidate signature: Date:
Teacher declaration: I declare that this work is solely that of the candidate and that it has been
carried out in line with Pearson and JCQ documentation for the conduct of the examinations. I
agree to this work being used to support teachers and examiners.
Teacher signature: Date:
If you need any advice on completing the form, please email:

languagesassessment@pearson.com

Appendix 2: Prescribed literary texts and
films
For Paper 2, students are required to study two works from the list below. This can be either
two literary texts or one literary text and one film.
Literary texts
Boule de Suif et autres contes de guerre (Boule de Suif, Un Duel, Deux Amis, La Mre
Sauvage), Guy de Maupassant, 1880 (short stories)
La Place, Annie Ernaux, 1983 (novel)
Le Bl en Herbe, Colette, 1923 (novel)
Le Chteau de ma Mre, Marcel Pagnol, 1957 (novel)

Le Gone du Chaba, Azouz Begag, 2005 (novel)
Les Mains Sales, Jean-Paul Sartre, 1948 (play)
Les Petits Enfants du sicle, Christiane Rochefort, 1961 (novel)

Le Tartuffe, Molire, 1669 (play)
Ltranger, Albert Camus, 1942 (novel)
No et Moi, Delphine de Vigan, 2007 (novel)
Thrse Desqueyroux, Franois Mauriac, 1927 (novel)
Une si longue lettre, Mariama B, 1981 (novel)
Un Sac de Billes, Joseph Joffo, 1973 (novel)
Films
Au Revoir les Enfants, dir. Louis Malle (1987)
Chocolat, dir. Claire Denis (1988)
Clo de 5 7, dir. Agns Varda (1962)

Deux Jours, une Nuit, dirs. Jean-Pierre Dardenne, Luc Dardenne (2014)
Entre les murs, dir. Laurent Cantet (2008)
Intouchables, dirs. Oliver Nakache, Eric Toledano (2011)

La Haine, dir. Mathieu Kassovitz (1995)
La Vie en Rose, dir. Olivier Dahan (2007)
Le Dernier Mtro, dir. Franis Truffaut (1980)

Les Choristes, dir. Christophe Barratier (2004)
Les 400 Coups, dir. Franis Truffaut (1959)
Un Long Dimanche de Fianailles, dir. Jean-Pierre Jeunet (2004)

Appendix 3: Grammar list
Students at A Level are expected to have studied the grammatical system and structures of
the language during their course. Knowledge of the grammar and structures specified for
GCSE is assumed.
In the examination, students will be required to use, actively and accurately, grammar and
structures appropriate to the tasks set, drawn from the following lists. The mention of an
item in these lists implies knowledge of both its forms and its functions at an appropriate
level of accuracy and complexity.
The examples in italics in parentheses are indicative, that is they serve to illustrate the part
of speech or structure that the students must know and hence do not represent an
exhaustive specification of the required grammatical knowledge. For items marked (R),
receptive knowledge only is required.
Nouns
Gender
Singular and plural forms
Articles
Definite, indefinite and partitive
Adjectives
Agreement
Position
Comparative and superlative
Use of adjectives as nouns (e.g. le vieux, les Anglais)
Demonstrative (ce, cet, cette, ces)

Indefinite (including autre, chaque, mme, quelque)
Possessive (mon, ma, mes, etc.)
Interrogative and exclamatory (quel, quelle, quels, quelles)
Numerals
Cardinal (e.g. un, deux)
Ordinal (e.g. premier, deuxime)
Expression of time and date
Adverbs
Formation of adverbs in ment
Comparative and superlative
Interrogative (including combien (de), comment, o, pourquoi, quand)
Quantifiers/intensifiers
Including assez, beaucoup, moins, plus, la plupart, plusieurs, presque, tant, trs, trop

Pronouns
Personal: subject, including on
Object: direct and indirect
Disjunctive/emphatic personal, as subject and object: moi/moi-mme, etc.

Position and order
Reflexive
Relative (including qui, que, dont, lequel etc., auquel etc., ce qui, ce que)
Demonstrative (celui, celle, ceux, celles; and celui-ci/celui-l etc.)
Indefinite (including quelquun, quelque chose)
Possessive (le mien etc.)

Interrogative (including qui, que, quoi)
Use of y, en
Verbs
Conjugation of regular -er, -ir, -re verbs, modal verbs, principal irregular verbs, including
reflexive verbs
Agreement of verb and subject
Use of il y a
Modes of address (tu, vous)
Impersonal verbs
Constructions with verbs
o Verbs followed by an infinitive (with or without a preposition)

Dependent infinitives (faire rparer) (R)
Perfect infinitive
Negative forms
Interrogative forms
Use of tenses
o present
o perfect (including agreement of past participle)
o imperfect
o future
o conditional
o future perfect
o conditional perfect
o pluperfect
o past historic (R)

Use of the infinitive, present participle (e.g. en arrivant) and past participle
Verbal paraphrases and their uses (including aller + infinitive, venir de + infinitive)
Passive voice
o present tense
o other tenses (R)

Dependent infinitives (faire rparer)

Passive voice: all tenses
Subjunctive mood:
o present (common uses, for example, after expressions of possibility, necessity,

obligation and after conjunctions such as bien que)
o perfect tense
o imperfect tense (R)
Prepositions
All prepositions, both simple (e.g. sous) and complex (e.g. au-del de)
Conjunctions
Coordinating conjunctions (e.g. et, ou, mais)
Subordinating conjunctions
Negation
Use of negative particles (e.g. ne...pas, ne...personne, ne...que)
Use of ne with negative subjects (e.g. Personne nest venu)
Questions
Commands
Word order
Inversion after speech
Inversion after adverbs
Other constructions
Time expressions with depuis and il y a
Comparative constructions
Indirect speech
Discourse markers
e.g. Au contraire, En fait
Fillers
e.g. alors, bon

Appendix 4: The context for the
development of this qualification
All our qualifications are designed to meet our World Class Qualification Principles[1] and our
ambition to put the student at the heart of everything we do.
We have developed and designed this qualification by:

reviewing other curricula and qualifications to ensure that it is comparable with those
taken in high-performing jurisdictions overseas
consulting with key stakeholders on content and assessment, including higher-education
academics and teachers to ensure this qualification is suitable for a UK context
reviewing the legacy qualification and building on its positive attributes.
This qualification has also been developed to meet criteria stipulated by Ofqual in their
documents GCE Qualification Level Conditions and Requirements and GCSE/GCE Subject
Level Conditions and Requirements for Modern Languages (French, German, Spanish),
published in May 2015.
[1]
Pearsons World Class Qualification Principles ensure that our qualifications are:
demanding, through internationally benchmarked standards, encouraging deep learning and
measuring higher-order skills
rigorous, through setting and maintaining standards over time, developing reliable and valid
assessment tasks and processes, and generating confidence in end users of the knowledge, skills
and competencies of certified students
inclusive, through conceptualising learning as continuous, recognising that students develop at
different rates and have different learning needs, and focusing on progression
empowering, through promoting the development of transferable skills, see Appendix 5:
Transferable skills.

From Pearsons Expert Panel for World Class Qualifications
May 2014
education
The reform of the qualifications system in England is a profoundly important change to the
system. Teachers need to know that the new qualifications will assist them in
helping their learners make progress in their lives.
When these changes were first proposed we were approached by Pearson to join an Expert
Panel that would advise them on the development of the new qualifications.
We were chosen, either because of our expertise in the UK education system, or because of
our experience in reforming qualifications in other systems around the world as diverse as
Singapore, Hong Kong, Australia and a number of countries across Europe.
We have guided Pearson through what we judge to be a rigorous qualification development

process that has included:
Extensive international comparability of subject content against the highest-performing
jurisdictions in the world
Benchmarking assessments against UK and overseas providers to ensure that they are at
the right level of demand
Establishing External Subject Advisory Groups, drawing on independent subject-specific
expertise to challenge and validate our qualifications
Subjecting the final qualifications to scrutiny against the DfE content and Ofqual
accreditation criteria in advance of submission.
Importantly, we have worked to ensure that the content and learning is future oriented. The
design has been guided by what is called an Efficacy Framework, meaning learner outcomes
have been at the heart of this development throughout.
We understand that ultimately it is excellent teaching that is the key factor to a learners
success in education. As a result of our work as a panel we are confident that we have
supported the development of qualifications that are outstanding for their coherence,
thoroughness and attention to detail and can be regarded as representing world-class best
practice.
Sir Michael Barber (Chair) Professor Lee Sing Kong
Chief Education Advisor, Pearson plc Director, National Institute of Education,

Singapore
Bahram Bekhradnia Professor Jonathan Osborne
President, Higher Education Policy Institute Stanford University
Dame Sally Coates Professor Dr Ursula Renold
Principal, Burlington Danes Academy Federal Institute of Technology,

Switzerland
Professor Robin Coningham Professor Bob Schwartz
Pro-Vice Chancellor, University of Durham Harvard Graduate School of Education
Dr Peter Hill
Former Chief Executive ACARA
All titles correct as at May 2014

Appendix 5: Transferable skills
The need for transferable skills
In recent years, higher education institutions and employers have consistently flagged the
need for students to develop a range of transferable skills to enable them to respond with
confidence to the demands of undergraduate study and the world of work.
The Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD) defines skills, or
competencies, as the bundle of knowledge, attributes and capacities that can be learned and
that enable individuals to successfully and consistently perform an activity or task and can be
built upon and extended through learning.[ 1]
To support the design of our qualifications, the Pearson Research Team selected and
evaluated seven global 21st-century skills frameworks. Following on from this process, we
identified the National Research Councils (NRC) framework as the most evidence-based and
robust skills framework. We adapted the framework slightly to include the Program for
International Student Assessment (PISA) ICT Literacy and Collaborative Problem Solving
(CPS) Skills.
The adapted National Research Councils framework of skills involves the following[2].
Cognitive skills
Non-routine problem solving expert thinking, metacognition, creativity.
Systems thinking decision making and reasoning.
Critical thinking definitions of critical thinking are broad and usually involve general
cognitive skills such as analysing, synthesising and reasoning skills.
ICT literacy access, manage, integrate, evaluate, construct and communicate[3].
Interpersonal skills
Communication active listening, speaking communication, written communication,
assertive communication and non-verbal communication.
Relationship-building skills teamwork, trust, intercultural sensitivity, service
orientation, self-presentation, social influence, conflict resolution and negotiation.
Collaborative problem solving establishing and maintaining shared understanding,
taking appropriate action, establishing and maintaining team organisation.
Intrapersonal skills
Adaptability ability and willingness to cope with the uncertain, handling work stress,
adapting to different personalities, communication styles and cultures, and physical
adaptability to various indoor and outdoor work environments.
Self-management and self-development ability to work remotely in virtual teams,
work autonomously, be self-motivating and self-monitoring, willing and able to acquire
new information and skills related to work.
Transferable skills enable young people to face the demands of further and higher education,
as well as the demands of the workplace, and are important in the teaching and learning of
this qualification. We will provide teaching and learning materials, developed with
stakeholders, to support our qualifications.
[1]
OECD Better Skills, Better Jobs, Better Lives (OECD Publishing, 2012)
[2]
Koenig J A, National Research Council Assessing 21st Century Skills: Summary of a Workshop (National
Academies Press, 2011)
[3]
PISA The PISA Framework for Assessment of ICT Literacy (2011)

Appendix 6: Level 3 Extended Project
qualification
What is the Extended Project?
The Extended Project is a stand-alone qualification that can be taken alongside GCEs. It
supports the development of independent learning skills and helps to prepare students for
their next step whether that be higher education or employment. The qualification:
is recognised by higher education for the skills it develops
is worth half of an Advanced GCE qualification at grades A*E
carries UCAS points for university entry.
The Extended Project encourages students to develop skills in the following areas: research,
critical thinking, extended writing and project management. Students identify and agree a
topic area of their choice for in-depth study (which may or may not be related to a GCE
subject they are already studying), guided by their teacher.
Students can choose from one of four approaches to produce:

a dissertation (for example an investigation based on predominantly secondary research)
an investigation/field study (for example a practical experiment)
a performance (for example in music, drama or sport)
an artefact (for example creating a sculpture in response to a client brief or solving an
engineering problem).
The qualification is non-examination assessment based and students are assessed, in

English, on the skills of managing, planning and evaluating their project. Students will
research their topic, develop skills to review and evaluate the information, and then present
the final outcome of their project.
The Extended Project has 120 guided learning hours (GLH) consisting of a 40-GLH taught
element that includes teaching the technical skills (for example research skills) and an
80-GLH guided element that includes mentoring students through the project work. The
qualification is 100% internally assessed and externally moderated.
How to link the Extended Project with languages

The Extended Project creates the opportunity to develop transferable skills for progression to
higher education and to the workplace, through the exploration of either an area of personal
interest or a topic of interest from within the language qualification content. The project
must be written in English.
Through the Extended Project, students will develop skills that support their study of French,
including:
conducting, organising and using research
independent reading in the subject area
planning, project management and time management
defining a hypothesis to be tested in investigations or developing a design brief
collecting, handling and interpreting data and evidence
evaluating arguments and processes, including arguments in favour of alternative
interpretations of data and evaluation of experimental methodology
critical thinking.

In the context of the Extended Project, critical thinking refers to the ability to identify and
develop arguments for a point of view or hypothesis and to consider and respond to
alternative arguments. This supports the development of evaluative skills, through
evaluating different arguments, and using qualitative and quantitative evidence to support
informed judgements and propose evidence-based solutions to issues.
Types of Extended Project related to languages

Students may produce a dissertation on any topic that can be researched and argued, for
example a controversial issue such as marriage for all, secularism, the impact of
immigration or the role of Europe.
A dissertation might involve an investigation such as:

the impact of English language on the French music industry
an investigation into the success of the different education systems in France.
The dissertation uses secondary research sources to provide a reasoned defence or a point of
view, with consideration of counter-arguments.
An alternative might be an investigative project or field study involving the collection of data
from primary research, for example:
a study of the impact of emigration on the local community in a Francophone country
a statistical survey of changing social attitudes towards using digital devices for reading
the news in France.
A field study might consider an issue that lends itself to primary research, for example an
investigation into the impact of government subsidies on the French film industry.
Using the Extended Project to support breadth and depth

In the Extended Project, students are assessed on the quality of the work they produce and
the skills they develop and demonstrate through completing this work. Students should
demonstrate that they have extended themselves in some significant way beyond what they
have been studying in French. Students can demonstrate extension in one or more
dimensions:
deepening understanding where a student explores a topic in greater depth than in the
specification content. This could be an in-depth exploration of one aspect of the themes
broadening skills where a student learns a new skill. This might be learning how to
design a website or learning a new statistical technique that can be used in the analysis of
either primary or secondary data collected by the student
widening perspectives where the students project spans different subjects. A student
studying French with business may wish to research the impact of tourism on a particular
region or locality. A student studying French with history may wish to analyse the impact
of the French Revolution on todays society.
Information to support the delivery and assessment of the Extended Project, including the
specification, can be found on our website.

Appendix 7: Codes
Type of code Use of code Code

Discount codes Every qualification eligible for performance Please see the GOV.UK
tables is assigned a discount code website*
indicating the subject area to which it
belongs.
Discount codes are published by the DfE.
Regulated Each qualification title is allocated an The QN for this

Qualifications Ofqual Regulated Qualifications qualification is:
Framework (RQF) Framework (RQF) code.
601/8702/5
codes
The RQF code is known as a Qualification
Number (QN). This is the code that
features in the DfE Section 96 and on the
LARA as being eligible for 1618 and 19+
funding, and is to be used for all
qualification funding purposes. The QN will
appear on students final certification
documentation.
Subject codes The subject code is used by centres to A Level 9FR0

enter students for a qualification. Centres
will need to use the entry codes only when
claiming students qualifications.
Paper codes These codes are provided for reference Paper 1: 9FR0/01
purposes. Students do not need to be
Paper 2: 9FR0/02
entered for individual papers.
Paper 3: 9FR0/03
*www.gov.uk/government/publications/2018-performance-tables-discount-code
sb310817 Z:\LT\PD\GCE 2016 NEW ISSUES\9781446948835_GCE2016_AL_FRENCH_ISSUE2.DOC.166/2

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learners at qualifications.pearson.com
This specification is Issue 2. Key changes are sidelined. We will inform centres of any
changes to this issue. The latest issue can be found on the Pearson website:
qualifications.pearson.com
References to third party material made in this specification are made in good faith. Pearson
does not endorse, approve or accept responsibility for the content of materials, which may
be subject to change, or any opinions expressed therein. (Material may include textbooks,
journals, magazines and other publications and websites.)
All information in this specification is correct at time of publication.
Original origami artwork: Mark Bolitho

Origami photography: Pearson Education Ltd/Naki Kouyioumtzis
ISBN 978 1 446 94883 5
All the material in this publication is copyright

Pearson Education Limited 2017
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Specification GCE A Level L3 in French

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Specification GCE A Level L3 in French

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A Level

Information on listening audio files has been added 4, 11

Paper 2: Content has been updated 12

Paper 3: Content and assessment information have been updated 19-21

Paper 3: General guidance on using levels-based mark schemes and guidance on 26

Information on codes have been updated 42, 60

Information on the letter has been updated 56

2 Subject content and assessment information 7

3 Administration and general information 42

Appendix 1: Independent research project form (RP3) 49

Why choose the Edexcel Level 3 Advanced GCE in

Rewards creativity our assessments place an emphasis on spontaneity and grammar, as

Continuous progression our content builds on the understanding developed at

AS and A Level qualifications that are co-teachable co-teaching AS and A Level

2 Pearson Edexcel Level 3 Advanced GCE in French Specification

Teaching and learning

Preparing for exams

Get help and support

Learn more at qualifications.pearson.com

Pearson Edexcel Level 3 Advanced GCE in French Specification 3

Content and assessment overview

Paper 1: Listening, reading and translation (**Paper code: 9FR0/01)

Written examination: 2 hours

40% of the qualification

Students are not permitted access to a dictionary during the examination.

The examination is made up of:

Section A: Listening (30 marks)

Section B: Reading (30 marks)

Section C: Translation into English (20 marks)

An unseen passage to be translated from French to English.

4 Pearson Edexcel Level 3 Advanced GCE in French Specification

Written examination: 2 hours and 40 minutes

30% of the qualification

Section A: Translation (20 marks)

Students translate an unseen passage from English into French.

Section B: Written response to works (literary texts) (50 marks)

Section C: Written response to works (films) (50 marks)

Pearson Edexcel Level 3 Advanced GCE in French Specification 5

Internally conducted and externally assessed

30% of the qualification

Students will be assessed on their ability to use a range of language accurately,

Task 1 (discussion on a Theme)

Task 2, Part 1 (independent research presentation)

Task 2, Part 2 (discussion on independent research)

6 Pearson Edexcel Level 3 Advanced GCE in French Specification

Qualification aims and objectives

Pearson Edexcel Level 3 Advanced GCE in French Specification 7

Theme 1: Les changements dans la socit franaise

Le systme ducatif et les questions estudiantines.

Theme 2: La culture politique et artistique dans les pays

Les changements et les dveloppements; limpact de la musique sur la culture populaire.

La libert dexpression; la presse crite et en ligne; limpact sur la socit et la politique.

Les festivals, ftes, coutumes et traditions.

Theme 3: Limmigration et la socit multiculturelle franaise

Les contributions des immigrs lconomie et la culture.

Les activits des communauts; la marginalisation et lalination du point de vue des

La monte du Front National; les leaders du Front National; lopinion publique.

8 Pearson Edexcel Level 3 Advanced GCE in French Specification

Marchal Ptain et la Rvolution nationale.

Pearson Edexcel Level 3 Advanced GCE in French Specification 9

Students should be able to:

Translation into English

10 Pearson Edexcel Level 3 Advanced GCE in French Specification